What changes are coming to Medicare in 2020?

Asked by: Ericka Hoeger  |  Last update: November 19, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (37 votes)

Changes to Medicare in 2020
  • Opioid treatment coverage. Part B benefits were expanded to cover services provided at opioid treatment programs (OTPs). ...
  • Medicare Part D indication-based formularies. ...
  • Medicare Advantage coverage of supplemental benefits. ...
  • Medicaid changes. ...
  • Additional resources for more information:

What changes are coming to Medicare in 2024?

Expansion of the federal Extra Help program

Historically, there have been two versions of the program, the full program and a partial program. As of January 1, 2024, the partial program was eliminated. With full benefits, the majority, if not all, out-of-pocket costs for prescription medications will be covered.

Does everyone have to pay $170 a month for Medicare?

Most people pay no premiums for Part A. For Medicare Part B in 2025, most beneficiaries will pay $185 per month. Certain factors may require you to pay more or less than the standard Medicare Part B premium in 2025.

What are the 6 things Medicare doesn't cover?

Some of the items and services Medicare doesn't cover include:
  • Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)
  • Long-term care.
  • Cosmetic surgery.
  • Massage therapy.
  • Routine physical exams.
  • Hearing aids and exams for fitting them.

What are the major changes to Medicare for 2025?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for older adults ages 65 and older. Open enrollment for 2025 Medicare plans runs through December 7. Some major changes in 2025 include a new $2,000 out-of-pocket max under Part D, eliminating the plan's “donut hole” coverage gap, and fewer Medicare Advantage plans.

What to know about big changes coming to Medicare in 2025

19 related questions found

What will happen to Medicare in 2026?

The Contract Year (CY) 2026 MA and Part D proposed rule aims to hold MA and Part D plans more accountable for delivering high-quality coverage so that people with Medicare are connected to the care they need when they need it.

How do you qualify for $144 back from Medicare?

To be eligible for the Medicare Part B Giveback Benefit, you must:
  1. Be enrolled Original Medicare (Parts A and B)
  2. Pay your own Part B premium.
  3. Live in the service area of a plan that offers a Part B giveback.

Why are people leaving Medicare Advantage plans?

Key takeaways: People leave Medicare Advantage plans because out-of-pocket costs vary between plans, network restrictions can cause frustration, prior authorization requests can delay care, and it can be difficult to use the additional benefits they provide.

How much money can you have in the bank if you're on Medicare?

eligibility for Medi-Cal. For new Medi-Cal applications only, current asset limits are $130,000 for one person and $65,000 for each additional household member, up to 10. Starting on January 1, 2024, Medi-Cal applications will no longer ask for asset information.

Is Medicare free at age 65 for seniors?

People age 65 or older, who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States, are eligible for Medicare Part A. You're eligible for Part A at no cost at age 65 if 1 of the following applies: You receive or are eligible to receive benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB).

What is the biggest problem with Medicare?

The biggest challenges reported by those in Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage: Out-of-pocket medical costs and health services they needed but weren't covered. “The gaps in Medicare coverage can really be notable,” says Jacobson.

What is the donut hole for 2025?

Starting in 2025, Medicare no longer has a 'donut hole,' or coverage gap. In prior years, you paid up to 25% out of pocket for covered medications in the donut hole phase. Starting in 2025, once you reach the annual out-of-pocket cap ($2,000 in 2025), you're done paying out of pocket for the year.

Why do people say not to get a Medicare Advantage plan?

Disadvantages of Medicare Advantage plans can include difficulty switching out of the plans later, restrictions on care access, limited provider networks, and limitations on extra benefits.

What are three services not covered by Medicare?

We don't cover these routine items and services: Routine or annual physical checkups (visit Medicare Wellness Visits to learn about exceptions). exams required by third parties, like insurance companies, businesses, or government agencies. Eye exams for prescribing, fitting, or changing eyeglasses.

How many doctor visits does Medicare cover for seniors?

Medicare does not limit the number of times a person can consult their doctor, but it may limit how often they can have a particular test and access other services. Individuals can contact Medicare directly at 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) to discuss physician coverage in further detail.

How to get $800 back from Medicare?

Medicare Part A and Part B know they can get up to $800 back

All the member has to do is provide proof that they pay Medicare Part B premiums. Each eligible active or retired member on a contract with Medicare Part A and Part B, including covered spouses, can get their own $800 reimbursement.

Why are seniors losing Medicare Advantage plans?

Medicare vs Privatized Medicare Advantage

Beneficiaries are tossed aside because they live in an unprofitable market for their insurer or because they are actually using the insurance they signed up for to access services.

Can I drop my Medicare Advantage plan and go back to original Medicare?

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period: Between January 1 and March 31 of each year, if you already have a Medicare Advantage Plan (with or without drug coverage) you can: Switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan (with or without drug coverage). Drop your Medicare Advantage Plan and return to Original Medicare.

What is the biggest disadvantage of Medicare Advantage?

The biggest disadvantage of Medicare Advantage is that you have fewer doctors to choose from when you get medical care.
  • Plans can also cost more overall than Original Medicare if you have complex medical needs. ...
  • With some plans, you don't have any coverage if you use a doctor that isn't in the network.

How much money can you have in savings and still get Medicare?

The state of California has made it easier for Californians to apply for help paying Medicare costs. On January 1, 2024, the asset test to qualify for a Medicare Savings Program was eliminated. This means individuals can have any amount of assets and still qualify for a Medicare Savings Program.

What are the changes coming to Social Security in 2025?

Social Security's earnings test limits also rose in 2025. This year, seniors who work and collect benefits will be able to earn more money without risking having a portion of their Social Security withheld.

What does Social Security extra help pay for?

The Extra Help program helps with the cost of your prescription drugs, like deductibles and copays. You can apply for Extra Help any time before or after you enroll in Part D.